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Wifi Guide

What Uses Wifi 6? Devices Using Wifi 6

Introduction If you have recently shopped for a new router, smartphone, or laptop, you have probably seen the term WiFi 6 plastered across product boxes and online listings. But what does it actually mean for your everyday devices, and more importantly, what u

HowToFixWiFi

Introduction

If you have recently shopped for a new router, smartphone, or laptop, you have probably seen the term WiFi 6 plastered across product boxes and online listings. But what does it actually mean for your everyday devices, and more importantly, what uses WiFi 6? Understanding which gadgets support this newer wireless standard can help you decide whether it is time to upgrade your home network or hold off on buying new hardware.

WiFi 6, also known as 802.11ax, is designed to handle the growing number of connected devices in modern households. From smartphones and laptops to smart thermostats and gaming consoles, an increasing range of electronics now comes with WiFi 6 compatibility. This article walks you through what WiFi 6 is, which devices use it, how to check your current gear, and how to upgrade if it makes sense for your situation.

Table of Contents

What Is WiFi 6?

WiFi 6 is the sixth generation of WiFi technology, officially designated as 802.11ax by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). It succeeds WiFi 5 (802.11ac) and brings several key improvements aimed at crowded networks and high-demand environments.

The most important advancements include:

  • Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA), which allows a single transmission to deliver data to multiple devices simultaneously.
  • Target Wake Time (TWT), which helps connected devices schedule when they wake up to send or receive data, reducing congestion and saving battery life.
  • Higher theoretical speeds, often cited around 9.6 Gbps compared to WiFi 5’s 3.5 Gbps, though real-world speeds vary.
  • Better performance in dense environments such as apartment buildings, stadiums, and busy offices.

When people ask what uses WiFi 6, they are usually wondering which everyday electronics can take advantage of these improvements. The answer continues to grow as manufacturers release new models.

Why WiFi 6 Matters

The average household now has more connected devices than ever before. Between phones, tablets, laptops, smart speakers, security cameras, and streaming boxes, it is not uncommon for a family to have twenty or more devices competing for bandwidth at the same time.

WiFi 6 matters because it was built with this reality in mind. Older standards can slow down when too many devices talk to the router at once. WiFi 6 handles that traffic more efficiently, which means smoother video calls, faster downloads, and less buffering even when everyone in the house is online.

It also matters for future-proofing. If you are buying a new device today, choosing one that uses WiFi 6 ensures it will remain compatible with newer routers and networks for years to come.

Smartphones and Tablets Using WiFi 6

Smartphones were among the first consumer devices to adopt WiFi 6 in large numbers. If you are wondering what uses WiFi 6 in your pocket, the answer is likely your recent phone.

iPhones That Use WiFi 6

Apple introduced WiFi 6 support starting with the iPhone 11 series. Every iPhone released since then, including the iPhone 12, iPhone 13, iPhone 14, iPhone 15, and newer models, supports WiFi 6. Some of the latest Pro models even support WiFi 6E, an extended version that uses the 6 GHz band.

Android Phones That Use WiFi 6

Many flagship Android phones now come with WiFi 6. Samsung Galaxy S10 and newer flagship models support it, as do Google Pixel 4 and later devices. Other manufacturers such as OnePlus, Xiaomi, and Sony have also included WiFi 6 in their higher-end handsets. Budget and mid-range phones are gradually catching up, but you will still find WiFi 5 on many lower-cost models.

Tablets That Use WiFi 6

Apple’s iPad Pro models from 2020 onward support WiFi 6. Some high-end Android tablets also include the feature, though it is less common in budget tablets. If you use your tablet for streaming, video conferencing, or large file transfers, WiFi 6 can make a noticeable difference.

Laptops and Computers Using WiFi 6

Laptops are another major category where WiFi 6 has become standard. If you bought a laptop in the last few years, there is a good chance it already uses WiFi 6.

Windows Laptops

Most modern Windows laptops from Dell, HP, Lenovo, ASUS, and other major brands include WiFi 6 in their mid-range and premium models. Look for specifications mentioning 802.11ax or Intel WiFi 6 (AX200, AX201, or newer).

MacBooks

Apple’s MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models with Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3, and later) support WiFi 6. Older Intel-based MacBooks generally do not, so check your specific model if you are unsure.

Desktop Computers

Desktop PCs do not always come with built-in WiFi, but many modern motherboards include WiFi 6 support. If your desktop lacks it, you can add a WiFi 6 PCIe card or USB adapter to get the benefits without replacing the whole computer.

Smart Home Devices and IoT Using WiFi 6

The smart home category is expanding quickly, and more Internet of Things (IoT) devices now support WiFi 6. When asking what uses WiFi 6 beyond phones and computers, smart home gear is a growing part of the answer.

Smart speakers, smart displays, security cameras, video doorbells, smart locks, and connected thermostats can all benefit from WiFi 6, especially in homes with dozens of connected gadgets. Because WiFi 6 handles multiple simultaneous connections more efficiently, your smart lights are less likely to lag while someone else is streaming 4K video.

That said, many smart home devices still use WiFi 4 or WiFi 5 because they do not need high speeds. For a simple smart plug or light bulb, WiFi 6 may be overkill. However, bandwidth-hungry devices like high-resolution security cameras and video doorbells are the best candidates for WiFi 6 support.

Gaming Consoles and Gaming PCs

Gamers are often early adopters of new networking standards because low latency and stable connections matter for competitive play.

Gaming Consoles

The PlayStation 5 supports WiFi 6, making it one of the first consoles to adopt the standard. The Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S also support WiFi 6. Older consoles such as the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One generally rely on WiFi 5 or wired Ethernet.

Gaming PCs

Gaming laptops and desktops frequently include WiFi 6, especially models built for online gaming. Pairing a WiFi 6 gaming PC with a WiFi 6 router can reduce lag and improve download speeds for large game files.

Streaming Devices and Smart TVs

Streaming video is one of the biggest bandwidth consumers in many homes. WiFi 6 helps ensure smooth 4K and even 8K streaming, especially when multiple TVs are running at once.

Many newer smart TVs from brands like Samsung, LG, Sony, and TCL include WiFi 6. Popular streaming devices such as the Apple TV 4K (2022 and later) and some Roku and Amazon Fire TV models also support the standard. If your TV or streaming box is more than a few years old, it likely uses WiFi 5 and will not see the benefits of a WiFi 6 router unless you upgrade the device itself.

WiFi 6 Routers and Mesh Systems

Of course, none of your devices can use WiFi 6 unless your router supports it. WiFi 6 routers and mesh systems have become widely available at various price points.

A WiFi 6 router acts as the central hub that communicates with your WiFi 6 devices. If you have a mix of old and new devices, a WiFi 6 router is backward compatible, meaning your older WiFi 5 gadgets will still connect, though they will not get the full WiFi 6 speed boost.

Mesh WiFi 6 systems are particularly useful for larger homes. They use multiple nodes to spread coverage throughout the house while maintaining the WiFi 6 standard across the network.

How to Check If Your Device Uses WiFi 6

Before you buy a new router or assume your gear is up to date, it is worth verifying whether your current devices actually support WiFi 6. Here is a step-by-step guide for common platforms.

On Windows

  1. Press the Windows key and type cmd, then press Enter to open Command Prompt.
  2. Type netsh wlan show drivers and press Enter.
  3. Look for the line that says Radio types supported.
  4. If you see 802.11ax listed, your WiFi adapter supports WiFi 6.

On macOS

  1. Hold the Option key and click the WiFi icon in the menu bar.
  2. Look for information about your interface, or open System Information.
  3. Navigate to Network > WiFi and check the PHY Mode or supported protocols for 802.11ax.

On iPhone and iPad

  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. Tap WiFi, then tap the information (i) icon next to your connected network.
  3. If the network details mention WiFi 6 or 802.11ax, your device is connected using that standard. Note that this shows the current connection, not necessarily hardware capability, so check Apple’s specifications for your model to confirm.

On Android

  1. Open Settings and go to Network & internet or Connections.
  2. Tap WiFi, then look for your connected network details.
  3. Some Android skins show the WiFi standard directly; otherwise, check the manufacturer’s website for your phone model and search for 802.11ax.

On Your Router

  1. Log into your router’s admin panel through a web browser.
  2. Look for the wireless settings or product specifications.
  3. Confirm that the model is listed as WiFi 6 or 802.11ax.

How to Upgrade to WiFi 6

Upgrading to WiFi 6 does not have to happen all at once. You can phase in new equipment as your budget allows.

  1. Assess your current devices. Make a list of what uses WiFi 6 in your home and what still relies on older standards.
  2. Choose a WiFi 6 router. Select a router that matches your home size and internet speed. Mesh systems work well for larger spaces, while a single router may suffice for an apartment.
  3. Connect your router. Replace your old router with the new WiFi 6 model and follow the manufacturer’s setup instructions.
  4. Reconnect your devices. Your WiFi 6 phones, laptops, and other gadgets should automatically connect using the new standard.
  5. Update device firmware. Make sure your phones, laptops, and smart home devices have the latest software updates for optimal compatibility.
  6. Test your connection. Run speed tests on different devices to confirm the upgrade is working as expected.

Remember that you do not need to replace every device at once. WiFi 6 routers are backward compatible, so your older electronics will keep working while your newer ones enjoy the benefits.

WiFi 6 vs WiFi 5 Comparison

To better understand what uses WiFi 6 and why it matters, it helps to compare it directly with WiFi 5.

Feature WiFi 5 (802.11ac) WiFi 6 (802.11ax)
Release year 2014 2019
Max theoretical speed 3.5 Gbps 9.6 Gbps
Frequency bands 5 GHz 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
OFDMA support No Yes
Target Wake Time No Yes
Performance in crowded areas Moderate High
Typical device support Older phones, laptops, IoT Newer phones, laptops, consoles, TVs

Tips and Best Practices

  • Place your router centrally. WiFi 6 performs best with a clear line of sight and minimal obstructions.
  • Use wired backhaul for mesh systems. If you have a WiFi 6 mesh system, connecting the nodes with Ethernet cables can improve stability and speed.
  • Keep firmware updated. Router and device manufacturers release updates that improve WiFi 6 performance and security.
  • Separate bands if needed. Some routers combine 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz into one network name. Splitting them can help older devices connect more reliably.
  • Do not overspend on WiFi 6E unless necessary. WiFi 6E adds the 6 GHz band, but standard WiFi 6 is sufficient for most households.
  • Check device compatibility before buying. If you are purchasing a new smart TV or security camera, verify that it supports WiFi 6 if you want to take full advantage of your router.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Uses Wifi 6?

Smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktop computers, gaming consoles, smart TVs, streaming devices, routers, mesh systems, and an increasing number of smart home devices use WiFi 6. Newer models from Apple, Samsung, Google, Microsoft, Sony, and many other brands typically include support.

Is WiFi 6 the Same as WiFi 6E?

No. WiFi 6E is an extension of WiFi 6 that adds access to the 6 GHz frequency band. Devices that support WiFi 6E can use that extra band for less interference, but they are still based on the WiFi 6 standard.

Do I Need WiFi 6?

If you have many connected devices, stream 4K video, play online games, or work from home with frequent video calls, WiFi 6 can improve your experience. If you have only a few devices and basic browsing needs, WiFi 5 may still be adequate.

Will My Old Devices Work With a WiFi 6 Router?

Yes. WiFi 6 routers are backward compatible with WiFi 5, WiFi 4, and older standards. Your older devices will connect normally, though they will not use WiFi 6 features.

Does WiFi 6 Make the Internet Faster?

WiFi 6 can improve local network speeds and efficiency, but it cannot make your internet connection faster than the plan you pay for from your service provider. It helps your devices use that connection more effectively, especially when multiple people are online at once.

Conclusion

So, what uses WiFi 6? The short answer is that an ever-growing list of modern electronics now relies on this standard. From the smartphone in your pocket to the laptop on your desk, the game console in your living room, and the smart camera watching your front door, WiFi 6 is becoming the baseline for new wireless devices.

Upgrading to WiFi 6 can make your home network feel faster and more reliable, especially if you have many devices connected at the same time. You do not need to replace everything immediately, but when you are ready to buy a new phone, laptop, router, or smart home gadget, choosing one that uses WiFi 6 is a smart way to stay ahead of the curve.